It is incorrect to describe this game as a melange of Celeste and Gris because of course this game predates both of them. But that is where my mind went — this sort of "emotional platformer" — and this game is terrific, ten hours of beauty and challenge and fun and very sweet characterization.

I think the gameplay was a little less tight than Celeste; I think the exploration and non-linearity felt a little unsatisfying (and I barely scratched the surface, it seems). But it was an absolute treasure of an experience, and I'm excited to dive into the sequel soon.

★★★★★

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About Ori and the Blind Forest

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I'm Justin Duke — a software engineer, writer, and founder. I currently work as the CEO of Buttondown, the best way to start and grow your newsletter, and as a partner at Third South Capital.

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